The Mask (SNES) Playthrough [4K]

"The Mask" is a side-scrolling action game developed by Black Pearl Software and published by THQ for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1995. It's based on the film of the same name, which itself was loosely inspired by the Dark Horse comic book series also titled "The Mask". Players take on the role of Stanley Ipkiss, the mild-mannered bank clerk who transforms into the mischievous and zany character known as The Mask when wearing a magical mask.

Players guide Ipkiss through six varied levels, each offering different challenges. Despite their diversity, levels can feel directionless, making navigation confusing, especially in maze-like stages. The game does a good job of capturing the zaniness of the wild character of The Mask with his moves. Many of them mirror scenes from the movie, including his mallet attack, summoning a tornado, wielding massive guns during the climactic confrontation, and unleashing a sentient horn. Additional moves include a sneaking ability that renders The Mask invisible to enemies, a dash move, and a "superdash" that lets him move at incredible speeds.

The game's major bosses are inspired by characters from the film, such as Mrs. Peenman, the irate landlady, and the bumbling repairmen Irv and Burt Ripley who fixed Ipkiss' car. With all the crazy moves available, the best strategy for defeating them is still often repeatedly punching enemies while running back and forth. The game concludes with a dance sequence featuring a representation of Cameron Diaz, accompanied by lively big band music.

Overall, "The Mask" for SNES successfully translates the character's larger-than-life persona into gameplay. Visually, it captures the colorful and cartoonish aesthetic of the movie, with vibrant graphics and character designs that reflect the over-the-top nature of The Mask's world. Where the game falls short is with the gameplay, level design, and its short playtime, making it a mediocre platformer game mostly for those who wants to relive the antics of The Mask in digital form.